There is a reason why Mallorca is one of the most popular islands in the Med for water sports. It offers a wide range of activities and is a paradise for holidaymakers who love life by, on, and in the water.
If you need to change up your holiday, Mallorca’s beaches will have you covered. From relaxing boat trips to adrenaline-fuelled jet ski tours and flyboard courses, the island offers a variety of water sports. You can spend an entire day on the water, from morning to evening, soaking up the heat and marvelling at the most gorgeous sunsets.
Not sure where to start? Don’t fret. We’ve put together the most popular water sports activities for you.
Catamaran
What’s better than sailing in a catamaran on a hot summer day? Not much! Enjoy a day trip and visit the island’s most beautiful bays, and alternate sunbathing onboard with dips in cool turquoise water. Or embark on an evening cruise for spectacular sunset views with a delicious cocktail in hand and a soundtrack of good music. Depart from Palma and you’ll see sights like Bellver Castle, the Cathedral, La Lonja, and, of course, the city’s iconic port.
There are so many catamaran service providers in Mallorca – you are spoilt for choice. The costs depend on the month and time of your preferred trip. Most operators can provide a meal on board or on the beach. You can also charter your own skippered catamaran and go anywhere on the island you please.
Flyboard & Jet Ski
Thrillseekers can rent a jet ski or give flyboarding a go. Jet-skiing is so popular that you can rent a jet ski on most of the island’s beaches. It’s easy to see why. Whether you’re in the driver’s seat or are a passenger, you’ll find that flying across the water at 70 mph is exhilarating. Few things are as life-affirming as roaring along the sandy shores of a stunning Mediterranean beach!
If flying above the water sounds like the ultimate aquatic experience, then flyboarding is for you. Although the newest extreme sport has only been around since 2012, it is fast becoming a must-do activity for daredevils. Just imagine. You’re standing on a board wearing boots with jet nozzles that give you enough oomph to fly up to 9m (72 ft) in the air!
SUP / Stand Up Paddling
Stand Up Paddling, or SUP, is a water sport where you stand upright on a wide board and paddle your way across the water. Although easier to master than surfing or wake boarding, sup boarding can be strenuous if there’s a bit of swell. What’s good about the sport is that it’s fun, easy to learn, great exercise, and accessible to anyone. In fact, you can bring your kids out on your SUP board or let them paddle on their own (from the age of 6 and upwards).
Boat charter
There is no shortage of boating options on the Germans’ favourite island. You can charter your dinghy for four and sail to your favourite beaches – even if you don’t have a boat licence. If you’re looking to charter a larger boat, however, you’ll need the right permit. And if you want to sit back and enjoy the sea, waves, and sun, you can charter a skippered boat.
From motor boats to sailing yachts and jet skis, you’ll find there’s plenty to choose from. What’s more, Mallorca’s friendly service providers are happy to help you plan your island itinerary.
Diving
Mallorca’s underwater world is nothing short of spectacular and the Bond Safari, a diving experience in Port Andratx, is a case in point. It will take you about 15 minutes to get to the dive site from Palma. A regular tour is approximately 1.5 hours and you’ll be underwater for 15-20 minutes. Descend into the protected bay (pirate’s cave) to discover a natural reef teeming with life and a spectacular sea cave. All equipment is included in the tour price. The tour is suitable for all experience levels, as you’re always accompanied by an expert diver.
Here’s what you can expect:
Reception at the dive centre, introduction to the BOND world, and a detailed briefing. Music, drinks, and snacks are included in the price.
Everything is filmed in HD (this includes underwater footage)
Return trip to Port Andratx and a “Divers Lunch” in the diving school’s bistro or a restaurant. Video, souvenir photo, and T-shirt.
Cap the afternoon off by strolling along Port Andratx’s boulevard and browsing the chic boutiques. The tours are available from the start of May till the end of October. There are two boats and each can comfortably accommodate 10 passengers.
Kayak
Sea kayaking is not only easy to learn but is also the perfect outdoor activity for a group of 8–20 people. It’s fun, a great workout, and evokes a tremendous sense of camaraderie. Tours start in a quiet bay so you can get accustomed to the kayak and find your paddling technique. You’ll receive a briefing from a certified, trilingual kayak instructor before you set off in your double sea kayak. There is the opportunity to stop at a beach for a swim and some food before the tour starts.
Boat trip to Sa Calobra
Embark on a boat trip to the beautiful bay of Sa Calobra and spend a relaxing day on the water. Sa Calobra, part of the municipality of Escorca and about 32 kilometres from Palma, lies on the island’s northwest coast. Its dramatic location, in the Tramuntana mountains, makes it one of the most impressive bays in Mallorca. You can only reach the cove via the serpentine MA-2141 road or by boat. Sail into the Sa Calobra gorge and feast your eyes on a view of turquoise water and a smattering of pretty terracotta buildings. Sa Calobra’s idyllic 20-metre beach boasts oodles of shady spots. Boats embark from the Port of Sóller to Sa Calobra daily.
